Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mexican Picadillo is a flavorful and comforting ground beef stew that combines savory, sweet, and spicy elements in every bite. With a base of seasoned ground beef, potatoes, carrots, raisins, and olives, this dish offers a beautiful balance of flavors, often served with rice or tortillas. It’s a perfect dish for family dinners or meal prep, providing both satisfaction and a touch of warmth in every serving.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beef
potatoes (peeled and diced)
carrots (peeled and diced)
yellow onion (chopped)
garlic (minced)
tomato (chopped)
green olives (pitted and chopped)
raisins
dried oregano
cumin
bay leaves
tomato sauce
beef broth or water
salt and pepper
vegetable oil (for cooking)

directions

Heat a large skillet or pot over medium heat and add a bit of vegetable oil. Once hot, add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper.
Once the beef is browned and fully cooked, remove any excess fat and add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft.
Add the diced potatoes, carrots, chopped tomato, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.
Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth (or water), then add the cumin, oregano, and green olives. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Add the raisins and stir. Continue to simmer for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or cumin if desired. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Serve hot with rice, tortillas, or over a bed of lettuce for a lighter option.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes

Variations

Swap the ground beef for ground pork or turkey for a different flavor profile.
Add diced bell peppers or zucchini for more vegetables.
If you prefer a spicier version, include chopped jalapeños or a pinch of chili powder in the recipe.

storage/reheating

Store Mexican Picadillo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I make this in advance?
Yes, Mexican Picadillo tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. You can make it up to 2 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator.

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use ground pork, turkey, or even chicken for a lighter version of Picadillo.

Do I have to add raisins?
Raisins add a touch of sweetness that complements the savory flavors, but if you prefer a more savory dish, you can omit them.

Can I freeze Picadillo?
Yes, you can freeze Mexican Picadillo for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove when ready to serve.

What should I serve with Picadillo?
It pairs wonderfully with white rice, tortillas, or even as a filling for tacos or empanadas.

Conclusion

Mexican Picadillo is a heartwarming, delicious dish full of rich flavors that will satisfy your cravings for both savory and sweet. Its versatility makes it perfect for weeknight dinners, and it’s sure to be loved by all. Whether served traditionally with rice or as a filling for tacos, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.